Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms

original: "三才圖會" (Sancai Tuhui). An encyclopedic work from the Ming Dynasty (1609).

Implements and Utensils, Volume 4

Covered Assault Ship (蒙衝) original: "Mengchong" An ancient warship mentioned as early as the Han Dynasty. Its hull was protected by leather or shields to shield the rowers and soldiers from arrows and fire.
Sand Ship (沙船) original: "Shachuan" A flat-bottomed vessel designed for the shallow, sandy waters of the northern coasts and the Yangtze River.
Fujian & Guangdong Boats (福船, 廣船) These represent the two major traditions of southern Chinese shipbuilding. The Fujian boat (Fuchuan) featured a high prow and deep V-shaped hull for the open sea, while the Guangdong boat (Guangchuan) was known for using durable hardwoods and ironwood in its construction.
Centipede Boat (蜈蚣船) original: "Wugongchuan" A fast, multi-oared galley. During the Ming Dynasty, this design was heavily influenced by or adapted from European (Portuguese) galleys encountered in southern waters.
Tower Ship (樓船) original: "Louchuan" The "battleship" of the ancient world, featuring multiple decks or "towers" from which soldiers could fire down upon the enemy.
Swift Scout (走舸) original: "Zhuge" Small, extremely fast vessels used for reconnaissance and boarding actions, famously utilized during the Battle of Red Cliffs.
Grass-Skimmer (草撇船) original: "Caopiechuan" A light, narrow craft designed for speed and agility in inland waterways and marshes.